2002 Yamaha XVS650
Only 13 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 13 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 4 |
| 2000 | 8 |
| 2001 | 8 |
| 2002 | 13 |
| 2005 | 4 |
| 2009 | 1 |
| 2010 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 13 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
3 of 13 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
ON THESE MODEL THE SHAFT ON THE FINAL-DRIVE GOING INTO THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL IS NOT OILED NOR HAS ENOUGH GREASE TO LAST OVER 10K MILES. I HAVE HAD THIS BIKE SERVICED AT EVERY SERVICE INTERVAL AND GREASING THE SPLINES IS NOT IN THE SERVICE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20170603
THE DRIVESHAFT STRIPPED WHILE COMING TO A STOP. A DEFECT IN DESIGN. WATER RUSTED THE DRIVESHAFT. *TR
NHTSA ODI report, 20141006
LIKE MANY OWNERS OF THE YAMAHA 650 SERIES, I AM EXPERIENCING ISSUES WITH THE FINAL DRIVE. MINE IS LEEKING FLUID THAT HAD METALLIC CHIPS IN IT WITH ONLY 30,000 MILES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20130228
2 of 13 total reports mention: vehicle speed control.
Show complaint excerpts
SPEEDOMETER CABLE BROKEN. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20030728
2 of 13 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
STARTER FAILURE ON 2002 YAMAHA V-STAR 1100 MOTORCYCLE DUE TO DESIGN FAILURE TO PREVENT "KICKBACK" UPON STARTING. VERY HIGH INCIDENCE OF FAILURE WITH MODELS PRIOR TO 2003 WHEN STARTER WAS REDESIGNED. YAMAHA WILL NOT ACKNOWLEDGE ANY RESPONSIBILITY.
NHTSA ODI report, 20031120
1 of 13 total reports mentions: wheels.
1 of 13 total reports mentions: tires.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2002 Yamaha XVS650 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2002 Yamaha XVS650 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2002 Yamaha XVS650?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 23% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2002 Yamaha XVS650 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.